Thursday, April 18, 2013

'Money Bills' originate only in the Lok Sabha. If a dispute arises as to whether a Bill is a Money Bill or not, the decision of the Speaker of Lok Sabha is final. Rajya Sabha has no power to reject a Money Bill. It can only make recommendations, ie, suggestions. The Lok Sabha may accept or reject all or any of the recommendations of the Rajya Sabha. 'Ordinary Bills' can originate in either House. In case of disagreement between the two Houses, the bill is referred to a joint sitting of both the Houses. It seems that the two houses have been placed on an equal footing in this regard. Really speaking, the Rajya Sabha is in a weaker position in this matter. Since the total membership of Rajya Sabha is less than even half of the total strength of the Lok Sabha, the will of the Lok Sabha would naturally prevail at a joint sitting. Moreover, a joint session is presided over by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.